Despite excelling in the left-back position, Orlando Pirates’ versatile player Deon Hotto has made it clear that he prefers playing as a left-winger.

Hotto explained that he was shifted to left-back due to injuries to Innocent Maela and Paseka Mako, forcing coach Jose Riveiro to find a solution.

The Namibian international performed admirably in the unfamiliar role, featuring in 41 matches across all competitions last season and scoring three goals.

“It’s not about being one of the best players, but about performance in training,” Hotto said when asked about his standing with Riveiro. “I had to discuss playing left-back with the coach because many people didn’t understand. Mako underwent surgery, and Maela was also out with a surgery.”

Hotto ruled out converting attackers Relebohole Mofokeng and Patrick Maswanganyi into left-backs, citing their defensive weaknesses. “So, who would play there? Patrick or Rele? I don’t think so, because their defensive abilities aren’t strong,” Hotto stated.

“The coach turned to me, and I agreed to try my best. I performed well in some games, but others were challenging because it’s not my natural position. I continued playing there until Mako recovered. Now, with Maela back, the situation is better. Even if the coach asked me to play as a striker, I would give it my all.”

Hotto’s ideal position is clear: “I’m a left-winger. That’s where I like to play.”

The player, who joined Pirates from the now-defunct Bidvest Wits ahead of the 2020/21 season, highlighted his importance to the team by scoring the winning goal against his former club, Bloemfontein Celtic, in the MTN8 final at the Moses Mabhida Stadium in his first season. All three of his MTN8 trophies have been won at the same venue in the past four years.